NEW DELHI: Karnataka deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar dismissed speculation of a power tussle within the Congress-led government, firmly stating that he and chief minister Siddaramaiah will continue in their respective roles for the full five-year term. Speaking on Saturday, Shivakumar said that the Congress party‘s directives would guide their actions, and he sought to quash rumours of leadership changes.
“No one should worry; there is no need for any political turn. People have blessed us and given us an opportunity, and we will continue for five years,” Shivakumar told reporters, as reported by news agency PTI>
Addressing supporters who hailed him as the “next chief minister,” he added, “I don’t want anyone to demand anything from me; I don’t want anyone’s support. I do not need any legislator’s backing. This is between me and the Congress party. Whatever the Congress party says, I will function accordingly. I don’t want workers or legislators to shout for me or stand in my support. I will do my duty.”
Shivakumar’s remarks came amidst ongoing speculation about a “rotational chief minister” formula, allegedly agreed upon after the May 2023 Assembly elections. Reports at the time suggested that Shivakumar, a Vokkaliga leader and state Congress President, would take over as chief minister halfway through the government’s term. However, the party has never officially confirmed such an arrangement.
The speculation gained momentum after a dinner hosted by Siddaramaiah with Dalit and Scheduled Tribe ministers, leading to conjecture about possible leadership changes. Shivakumar brushed aside these reports, reiterating his commitment to the party’s high command and his faith in the philosophy of “Karmanye vadhikaraste ma phaleshu kadachana” – a belief in performing one’s duty without expecting results.
His statements follow comments by Cabinet colleague KN Rajanna, a Siddaramaiah loyalist, who suggested Shivakumar focus on leading the Congress to victory in the next elections and serving as chief minister for a full term instead of aiming for the position during the current government’s tenure. “As a human being, the desire for power is natural. My suggestion to Shivakumar is why fight for two-and-half years now. Lead the party to victory in the next elections and serve as CM for a full five years. None will object,” Rajanna said.
Shivakumar also addressed criticism over his frequent temple visits, dismissing claims that it was a political strategy. “I do puja every day. It’s for my wellness and the welfare of the state. It is each one’s personal belief,” he said, TOI had earlier reported.
Also read:Why aim for 2.5 years, become CM for 5, Karnataka minister KN Rajanna tells DK Shivakumar